Finding the best wide format printer for art prints involves balancing print quality, size capabilities, and usability. The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 stands out as the overall best for its reliable performance and impressive print sizes. For those prioritizing vibrant photo reproduction, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 offers outstanding color accuracy and detail. Meanwhile, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 provides excellent value with its refillable tanks and versatile media handling. Each option presents tradeoffs around cost, complexity, and print size, making it vital to choose based on your specific needs. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and more to discover which best suits your art printing goals.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance print quality, size, and ease of use, with professional models favoring color accuracy and large formats.
- Replenishable ink tanks like Epson EcoTank models significantly reduce long-term printing costs for artists and small studios.
- Printer size and setup complexity vary widely; compact units may limit media size but are easier to fit into small spaces.
- High-end professional printers like the Canon PRO-2100 deliver gallery-quality results but come at a premium price.
- Features such as wireless connectivity, automation, and media versatility are crucial for efficient art production.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7310 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with Print up to 13″ x 19″ Auto Double-Sided Printing max 11″ x 17″, 500-sheet Capacity, 2.4″ Color Display, Smart Panel App – Black
This Epson model stands out for its ability to handle large-format art prints up to 13″ x 19″ with impressive speed and high capacity, making it ideal for serious art studios or print shops. Compared with the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, it offers a broader paper capacity and faster throughput, though it sacrifices some of the color accuracy and detailed art reproduction features of the Canon. Its PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology means lower energy use and zero warmup time, which helps streamline workflows. The main tradeoff is that it relies exclusively on Epson Genuine Cartridges, which can increase ongoing costs. For those needing a reliable, heavy-duty printer that balances speed, size, and cost, this makes a compelling choice.
Pros:- High-capacity 500-sheet paper handling for large projects
- Fast print speeds up to 25 black/12 color ISO ppm
- Auto double-sided printing to save time and paper
- Smart Panel App for easy wireless control
Cons:- Limited color gamut compared to specialized art printers
- Uses only Epson Genuine Cartridges, increasing consumable costs
- Less suitable for detailed or color-critical art reproductions
Best for: Artists or print shops producing high-volume, large-format art prints with an emphasis on speed and efficiency.
Not ideal for: Artists requiring maximum color accuracy and fine art reproduction, who might prefer the Canon PRO-1100.
- Max Print Size:13″ x 19″
- Sheet Capacity:500 sheets
- Print Speed:Up to 25 ppm black, 12 ppm color
- Display:2.4-inch color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi Direct
- Technology:PrecisionCore Heat-Free
Bottom line: Ideal for high-volume art printing where speed, capacity, and cost-efficiency are priorities over fine color fidelity.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9720e Wide Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best for Office, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included, AI-Enabled (53N95A)
This HP model excels in producing vibrant, professional-quality color prints with wide-format capability up to 11″ x 17″, perfect for artists who frequently print detailed project layouts or mood boards. Unlike the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100, it offers AI-enhanced printing that reduces wasted ink and improves layout accuracy, though it’s limited to smaller print sizes. Its wireless connectivity and built-in security features make it a strong choice for collaborative environments. However, it’s more suited to office settings than fine art reproduction, as its color gamut and resolution are not on par with high-end photo printers. For artists who value convenience and smart technology over maximum size or color fidelity, this is a smart pick.
Pros:- Wide-format printing up to 11″ x 17″ with borderless options
- AI-enabled printing for precise, waste-reducing output
- Built-in security and wireless connectivity for office use
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial
Cons:- Limited maximum print size compared to dedicated art printers
- Color gamut narrower than professional photo printers
- Print resolution not ideal for ultra-fine detail
Best for: Artists needing reliable, vibrant prints for presentations, portfolios, or mood boards in a collaborative or office environment.
Not ideal for: Fine art photographers requiring the highest color accuracy and expansive color gamut, who should consider the Canon PRO-1100 instead.
- Max Print Size:11″ x 17″
- Print Speed:Up to 18 ppm color
- Display:Color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Cartridge Type:HP Chips
- Auto Duplex:Yes
Bottom line: Best suited for artists needing vibrant, reliable prints for presentations and portfolios within a smaller format.
HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Print, scan, Copy, ADF, Duplex Printing Best-for-Office, 3 Month Instant Ink Trial Included, AI-Enabled (537P6A)
This HP model offers a robust solution for printing large-format, professional-quality color documents up to 13″ x 19″. Compared with the Epson WF-7310, it provides a more seamless wireless experience and enhanced security features, making it a strong candidate for collaborative art projects or offices that need high-quality color output. Its AI-driven print optimization reduces wasted material and improves layout accuracy, although it doesn’t support the widest possible formats or the ultra-fine detail of high-end photo printers like the Canon PRO-1100. Its fast speeds and auto document feeder make it ideal for busy environments that need reliable, high-volume printing. However, it’s less suited for fine art reproduction where color precision and media flexibility are critical.
Pros:- Wide-format up to 13″ x 19″ with borderless printing
- Auto duplex and auto document feeder for productivity
- Reliable dual-band Wi-Fi with automatic connection issues resolution
- Includes 3-month Instant Ink trial
Cons:- Limited media flexibility compared to fine art printers
- Color gamut narrower than dedicated photo printers
- Less suited for detailed fine art reproductions
Best for: Artists and designers producing large-format color documents and posters in an office setting.
Not ideal for: Artists requiring the highest color fidelity for fine art or photographic reproductions, better suited to Canon’s professional line.
- Max Print Size:13″ x 19″
- Print Speed:Up to 18 ppm
- Display:Color touchscreen
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Cartridge Type:HP Chips
- Auto Duplex:Yes
Bottom line: A solid choice for large-format, high-quality art prints in a busy office or studio environment.
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format Color All-In-One Supertank Printer
This Epson EcoTank model distinguishes itself by replacing cartridges with refillable ink bottles, significantly reducing long-term costs for large art projects. Supporting borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″ with vibrant, lab-quality images thanks to its 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system, it is perfect for artists who need both quality and economy. Compared to the Canon PRO-1100, it offers comparable large-format capabilities but at a lower upfront cost, although it involves more frequent ink bottle replacements. The user-friendly touchscreen and high page yield (over 6,200 pages) make it a practical choice for artists on a budget seeking consistent, high-volume printing without sacrificing image quality. The main drawback is the higher initial purchase price and the need to replace ink bottles over time.
Pros:- Vibrant, lab-quality photo printing with 6-color ink system
- Supports borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″
- Inks bottles last up to 6,200 pages, reducing costs
- Easy-to-use 4.3-inch touchscreen interface
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to cartridge-based printers
- Ink bottles need replacement over time, adding to maintenance
- Slower print speeds compared to high-end photo printers
Best for: Artists and photographers seeking affordable, high-volume, large-format printing with excellent color quality.
Not ideal for: Artists needing ultra-fine detail or the absolute widest color gamut, which might prefer high-end pigment-based printers like Canon PRO-1100.
- Max Print Size:13″ x 19″
- Page Yield (Color):6,200 pages
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Display:4.3-inch touchscreen
- Ink System:6-color Claria ET Premium
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
Bottom line: Best for artists who prioritize cost-effective, high-volume large-format printing with excellent color output.
Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: 17” Professional Wireless Inkjet Photo Printer
The Canon PRO-1100 is designed specifically for artists and photographers demanding the utmost in color fidelity, deep blacks, and detailed gradations. Its 11-pigment ink system, including Chroma Optimizer, delivers an exceptional color gamut and gloss uniformity, surpassing the capabilities of typical office or general-purpose printers. Compared with the Epson WF-7310, it offers superior color accuracy and finer control over fine art reproductions, but at a considerably higher cost and larger footprint. Its software integration and color management tools make it ideal for professional artists needing gallery-quality output. However, its size, cost, and slower print speeds make it less suited for high-volume or casual printing needs. For precision and gallery-ready art prints, this is the top choice.
Pros:- Exceptional color gamut with pigment-based ink system
- Outstanding gloss and scratch resistance with Chroma Optimizer
- Supports borderless prints up to 17″ x 22″
- Professional software integration for precise color management
Cons:- Higher purchase price and maintenance costs
- Larger physical size and slower speeds
- Limited media flexibility compared to larger format printers
Best for: Professional artists and photographers needing gallery-quality, color-accurate prints for exhibits or archival use.
Not ideal for: Artists seeking a budget-friendly, high-volume printer for casual or large-scale art production; better suited to Canon’s specialized high-end line.
- Max Print Size:17″ x 22″
- Number of Ink Colors:11
- Print Resolution:2400 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Media Types:Photo paper, Fine art media
- Warranty:1 year
Bottom line: Perfect for artists and photographers prioritizing gallery-quality, color-accurate prints over volume or speed.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, Ethernet and Printing up to 13 x 19 Inches, White
This Epson EcoTank ET-15000 stands out for its combination of affordability, versatility, and large-format capability. Compared to the Canon PRO 2100, it offers a similar 13″ x 19″ print size but at a significantly lower cost per page thanks to refillable ink tanks. Its all-in-one design allows effortless scanning, copying, and faxing, making it perfect for artists who need more than just printing. The main tradeoff is that its print speed is slower than laser-focused models like the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820, but the ink savings and ease of use compensate well. The 250-sheet paper capacity and wireless connectivity make it a strong choice for busy art studios or small galleries. While it excels in producing vibrant, borderless art prints, the initial setup and ink refilling process may require a learning curve.
Pros:- Cost-efficient ink system with low per-page printing costs
- Large 13″ x 19″ borderless printing capability
- All-in-one features including scanning, copying, and faxing
- High paper capacity of 250 sheets
Cons:- Slower print speeds compared to laser printers
- Setup and maintenance can be more involved for beginners
Best for: Artists and small studios seeking large, cost-efficient, high-quality prints with multifunctionality.
Not ideal for: Photographers requiring ultra-fast print speeds or the most detailed color accuracy for professional gallery work.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:4800 x 1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
Bottom line: This printer offers a versatile, economical choice for artists who need large-format prints and multifunctionality without sacrificing quality.
Epson Expression Photo XP-980 Wireless Wide-Format Printer with 6-Color Claria Ink System, Borderless Printing up to 11″ x 17″, Fast 4″ x 6″ Photo Printing, Built-in Scanner and Copier
This Epson Expression Photo XP-980 excels at producing stunning, professional-quality photos up to 11″ x 17″ thanks to its 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system and high resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi. Unlike the larger but more utilitarian ET-15000, it focuses on delivering exceptional image detail and color accuracy, making it ideal for artists aiming for gallery-ready work. Its compact size and touchscreen controls make it a user-friendly option, especially for those who want a dedicated photo printer. The main tradeoff is its limited paper capacity of 120 sheets, which may be restrictive for high-volume printing. Compared to the Canon PRO 2100, it’s less suited for large-scale fine art production but offers superior photo quality for smaller prints.
Pros:- Exceptional 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system
- High resolution for sharp, detailed prints
- Borderless printing up to 17 inches
- User-friendly 4.3″ touchscreen
Cons:- Limited paper capacity of 120 sheets
- Higher cost per print compared to supertank models
Best for: Photographers and artists producing high-detail, borderless 11″ x 17″ art prints in small batches.
Not ideal for: Large-volume printing or artists needing wide-format printing beyond 17 inches or multi-function beyond photo printing.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:11 x 17 inches
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Borderless Printing:Up to 17 inches
- Paper Capacity:120 sheets
Bottom line: This printer is a top pick for artists and photographers prioritizing high-quality, borderless photo prints on a manageable scale.
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer, Amazon Dash Replenishment Ready, Black, Large
This Epson XP-15000 is designed for artists requiring large, vibrant prints up to 13″ x 19″ with exceptional color depth, thanks to its 6-color Claria Photo HD ink system including red and gray inks. Its compact size, compared to previous wide-format models, makes it suitable for small studios while still supporting borderless printing and a variety of media types. Its ability to support auto duplex printing and a large rear tray for specialty media offers flexibility for creative projects. The inclusion of Dash Replenishment helps manage ink levels efficiently, reducing downtime. Compared to the Canon PRO 2100, it offers more automation and ease of use, though it may deliver slightly less color accuracy for extremely fine art reproductions. It strikes a good balance for artists who want large, colorful prints without the bulk or cost of traditional high-end fine art printers.
Pros:- Supports borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″
- Includes red and gray inks for wider color gamut
- Auto duplex printing and large media tray
- Dash Replenishment for automatic ink ordering
Cons:- Slightly lower color accuracy than high-end models like Canon PRO 2100
- Initial setup may be complex for some users
Best for: Artists and creatives producing large, colorful prints with minimal maintenance and automatic ink reordering.
Not ideal for: Artists needing ultra-precise color matching for gallery submissions or large-scale professional fine art reproduction.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Borderless Printing:Up to 13 inches
- Paper Capacity:50 sheets
Bottom line: This wide-format printer provides a practical, automated solution for artists needing large, vivid prints with minimal fuss.
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Printer, Auto 2-Sided Print 13″ x 19″ Copy, Scan & Fax, 50-Page ADF, 250-sheet Paper Capacity, Works with Alexa – Black
The Epson WF-7820 offers a strong balance of office functionality and art printing, capable of producing high-quality 13″ x 19″ prints with its PrecisionCore print head. Compared with dedicated photo printers like the XP-980, it provides faster speeds and larger paper handling capacity, making it suitable for artists who also need multifunctionality in a busy studio environment. Its automatic duplexing and 250-sheet capacity reduce interruptions, and the wireless connectivity makes remote printing straightforward. However, it’s less specialized in fine art reproduction than the Canon PRO 2100 or the Epson XP-980, and its color accuracy may need calibration for critical art prints. Still, it’s a versatile choice for artists working across multiple media types and needing multifunction features.
Pros:- Fast print speeds up to 13″ x 19″
- Automatic duplex and high paper capacity
- Wireless and Alexa-compatible for remote control
- Multi-function with scan, copy, and fax
Cons:- Less color precision compared to dedicated photo printers
- Bulkier footprint than compact models
Best for: Artists balancing large-format art prints with frequent printing, scanning, and copying needs in a shared workspace.
Not ideal for: Artists focused solely on gallery-quality photo or fine art reproductions requiring maximum color fidelity.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:13 x 19 inches
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Alexa
- Automatic Duplex:Yes
- Paper Capacity:250 sheets
Bottom line: This model is ideal for artists who need a wide-format printer that doubles as a robust office machine with good print quality.
CANON PRO 2100 24 WIDE, FORMAT FINE ART PRINTER
The Canon PRO 2100 is designed specifically for professional artists and photographers needing the highest fidelity in large-format prints. Its 24-inch wide inkjet system uses a 12-color LUCIA PRO ink set, resulting in extraordinary color accuracy, smooth gradations, and long-lasting archival quality. Compared to the Epson XP-15000, which offers a smaller print size, the PRO 2100 is tailored for gallery-standard fine art reproduction. Its robust build and advanced color management make it ideal for producing museum-quality art prints. The main tradeoff is its higher price point and larger footprint, which might be overkill for casual artists or small studios. However, for those demanding top-tier image quality and longevity, this is a definitive choice.
Pros:- 24-inch wide, professional-grade print quality
- 12-color LUCIA PRO ink set for exceptional color and longevity
- Archival quality with fade resistance
- Advanced color management for precise reproductions
Cons:- High cost and large physical size
- Requires professional calibration for optimal results
Best for: Professional artists and photographers producing gallery-quality, large-scale art reproductions.
Not ideal for: Hobbyists or artists with limited studio space seeking a more affordable or compact solution.
- Printer Type:Inkjet
- Maximum Media Size:24 inches wide
- Print Resolution:Up to 2400 dpi
- Number of Ink Colors:12
- Archival Quality:Yes
- Connectivity:Ethernet, USB
Bottom line: This high-end printer is a go-to for professionals demanding museum-quality, large-format fine art prints.
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their ability to produce high-quality art prints, compatibility with large media sizes, and overall value for artists and professionals. Performance factors like color accuracy, print resolution, and media handling were prioritized, alongside usability features such as wireless connectivity and ease of maintenance. Cost-effectiveness was also considered, especially for artists working within a budget. The ranking reflects a balance between professional capabilities and practical considerations for different user needs, with top picks excelling in print quality, size versatility, and workflow integration.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Wide Format Printer For Art Prints
Choosing the best wide format printer for art prints requires understanding your specific needs, including print size, color fidelity, and budget. Not all printers handle large media equally well, so considering media compatibility and ink system is crucial. Ease of use and maintenance can greatly impact your workflow, especially if you plan to produce high volumes or complex projects. Additionally, investing in a printer with reliable connectivity and support ensures smoother operation over time. This guide explores key factors to help you select a device that balances quality, cost, and functionality for your art printing ambitions.Print Size and Media Compatibility
Art printing often demands larger media sizes and a variety of paper types, from fine art papers to glossy photo stock. It’s important to choose a printer that can handle your maximum required media size, typically 13×19 inches or larger. Consider whether the printer supports different media thicknesses and textures, especially if you work with textured or specialty papers. A mismatch here can limit your creative options or lead to frequent paper jams, so always verify media compatibility before buying.
Color Accuracy and Resolution
For art prints, color fidelity and detail are paramount. Look for printers that offer high resolutions, ideally 1200 dpi or above, to ensure sharpness and fine detail. Color management features, such as support for ICC profiles and wide color gamuts, are essential for reproducing accurate colors that match your original artwork. Higher-end professional printers typically excel in this area but come with a higher price; balancing your needs with budget is key.
Ink System and Cost of Operation
The type of ink system impacts print quality and ongoing costs. Refillable tanks like Epson EcoTank models offer lower per-print costs and less waste, making them ideal for artists producing large volumes. Photo printers with dedicated dye or pigment inks also provide superior color accuracy and longevity, but may be more expensive to maintain. Keep in mind that ink quality and longevity directly influence the archival quality of your art prints.
Ease of Use and Workflow Features
Especially for artists and small studios, a user-friendly interface and reliable connectivity options—such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile printing—are vital. Features like automatic duplex printing and media handling automation save time and reduce errors. Consider also the availability of support and maintenance services, as complex professional printers may require more technical upkeep. Investing in intuitive control panels or companion apps can streamline your workflow significantly.
Price and Long-Term Value
While premium models deliver higher quality and larger media handling, they come with a steep initial investment. Conversely, more affordable options might require compromises in media size or color accuracy. Evaluate your long-term printing volume and budget to determine whether a higher upfront cost justifies its benefits over time. Remember, a slightly more expensive printer that reduces waste, offers better durability, and lowers operational costs can be more economical in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use standard photo paper with a wide format printer for art prints?
Yes, most wide format printers designed for art printing support a variety of media, including standard photo paper. However, it’s important to verify that the paper weight and texture are compatible with your specific model. For best results, use media recommended by the manufacturer, especially for fine art and archival prints, to ensure color accuracy, longevity, and media handling reliability.
What’s the difference between dye and pigment inks for art printing?
Dye inks typically produce more vibrant colors and are often preferred for photo printing, but they may fade faster over time. Pigment inks tend to offer better longevity and water resistance, making them ideal for archival art prints. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize brightness and detail or durability. Many professional art printers include pigment inks for this reason, despite their higher cost.
Is wireless connectivity essential for an art printer?
Wireless connectivity adds significant convenience, allowing you to print directly from your computer, tablet, or smartphone without cumbersome cables. It streamlines workflow, especially if you work in a shared or small studio space. However, wired connections like Ethernet or USB can sometimes offer more stable data transfer, which is worth considering if you handle large files regularly or require maximum reliability.
How important is print resolution for art prints?
Print resolution is critical for capturing fine details and ensuring high-quality images. For art prints, resolutions of 1200 dpi or above are recommended to achieve crisp details and smooth gradients. Lower resolutions might suffice for casual or temporary prints, but if your goal is gallery-quality output, investing in a high-resolution printer is worthwhile to meet professional standards.
Should I prioritize a professional-grade printer or a more affordable model?
The choice depends on your production volume, quality expectations, and budget. Professional-grade printers like the Canon PRO-2100 deliver exceptional color accuracy, large media capacity, and durability, but come with a significant cost. More affordable models can produce excellent results for smaller projects or hobbyist work, but may require more frequent maintenance or offer less media versatility. Weigh your long-term needs against initial investment to find the best fit.
